MAKE YOUR RENTED HOUSE A HOME

I know first hand what it is like to be frustrated when renting and feel like you don’t have control over what you really want to do with your home; the struggle between wanting to personalise your space, but not being able to. I rented for 5 years, and I always held back! I never used my nice crockery or tableware. I kept everything boxed up just waiting for that perfect home, and I can certainly say that I regret doing that, because it was undoubtedly the cause of a lot of internal dissatisfaction. We commonly hold back from buying good quality and expensive pieces of furniture because we feel like it’s a poor investment to put money into an item that may not suit a more permanent or purchased house in the future. However, not putting energy into your rental will find a way to creep up on you and cause frustration.

Ultimately, if you are renting a property it is a necessity to take advantage of your current living situation. You can do better and actually love your surroundings, even if they are temporary! You should not have to be frustrated and disgruntled every time you walk through your front door...

This is a perfect opportunity to trial a variety of styles you like because it’s a temporary space that you can use to experiment, live out and personalise! Own your home (regardless if you actually do own it) and make it yours. There are loads of ways you can decorate or style your rental property keeping within the restrictions you have to work to, you just have to have an open mind!

YOU DON’T HAVE TO SPEND BIG TO SEE RESULTS! 

There are so many minor things you can do that will revamp your rental and make it a space that you are genuinely proud of. Here are a handful of my tips:

• Don't like your floor? Why not buy a gorgeous rug to detract from it! And if or when you move one day, you can easily find a spot for it in your new home!
• DO NOT HOARD. Declutter and get rid of the items that you are holding on to but that don't serve you properly anymore. The more space you have, the easier it will be to find a good piece of furniture or object
• Bring flora and fauna into your home! Fresh flowers, planters and greenery can make the world of difference. Not only will this help you connect with nature, this will help you reduce stress and is directly linked to mental and emotional development.

• Put your best photo forward...  Cute photographs and pictures will help the space feel far more homely, warmer and personal and are also a cost-effective way of decorating the space.
• Mirrors help reflect natural light and create an illusion of more space. This will elevate the space enormously!
• Purchase or put out coffee table books and stunning 'objects de art' that have personal significance to you. Don't focus on what is "in fashion" or what your friends have in their spaces; focus on the things that are important to you and inspire you. These pieces do not necessarily to have a high monetary value yet they will make your rental glow with personal style.

• Use your nice hand towels, crockery, cutlery and candles. Many people 'save' their stunning pieces for "one day in their own home." This type of thinking will only cause you unhappiness and angst. USE THEM TODAY! Feel proud to have gorgeous things in your home, even if you do not own it per se.  

LOOK ON THE BRIGHTSIDE

There are definitely positives involved in renting.  With every home you rent, should come a more refined sense of what you want in your "forever home." Renting will help you to identify and know exactly what you want and need so when the time comes, you will be well prepared with clear-cut ideas and little indecision! Focus on what you want rather than what you don't want. This positive thinking will also improve your lifestyle with general energy to attract positive experiences!

Ultimately you need to look at what inspires you, reflects your own personal style and what would make the home a space you love!  In the mean time, I want to hear your best kept secrets about what you do to jazz up your rental? Hit me up in the comments section below!